9. Concerning Virtue

This is the short and certain way to acquire virtue, because God is the source and essence of all virtue. To possess Him is indeed to possess all virtue. The nearer we approach to this possession, the greater the degree of virtue we obtain. Again, all virtue that is not given from within is but a mask of virtue, and is like a garment that is put on or off at will. But the virtue that is communicated from within is the only true, essential, and permanent virtue. “The beauty of the King’s daughter comes from within.” Psalm 45:13. Of all people, there are none who practice virtue more vigorously than these, though they do not think of the virtue in particular. For God, to whom they keep themselves united, constrains such ones to practice virtue in all its forms. He will endure nothing sinful in them, and forbids them to delight in anything other than Himself. Oh, what hunger these devout souls have for sufferings! What austerities they would gladly submit to if allowed to act according to their desires. They think only of what may please their Beloved, and so they begin to neglect and despise themselves. The more they love their God, the more they hate themselves and despise the world. Oh, if men could but learn this most easy method, which is fitting for anyone—for the dull and ignorant as well as the learned—how easily would the whole church of God be reformed! We only need to love. “Love,” said St. Augustine, “and then do what you will.” For when we love in truth, we cannot will anything that may displease our Beloved. “God is love, and he that abides in love dwells in God, and God in him.” 1 John 4:16.